'Black Panther' film gets a writer

Marvel Studios has recruited a writer to pen the screenplay for its proposed Black Panther film.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, documentarian Mark Bailey will provide a script for the comic book adaptation.

Marvel secured the movie rights to the series in 2005. Studio exec Kevin Feige announced that a Black Panther project was part of the firm's development slate in 2007, but an official announcement was never made.

Several actors have expressed interest in playing the title character in recent years, including Wesley Snipes, Akinnuoye-Agbaje and Djimon Hounsou.

Debuting in a Fantastic Four issue in 1966, the Black Panther is considered to be one of the first black superheroes in mainstream comics. Marvel is yet to confirm the development of a film based on the character.